Occupation: President, RATANA International

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Design, golf, travel, and my beautiful grand-daughters.”

Problems/Issues Facing the Patio Furnishings Industry: “Increased competition across all areas from low- to high-end. This means we need to work hard to offer innovative designs and technology, high-quality products, and superior customer service.”

Key Trends in the Patio Furnishings Industry Today: “Longevity and consistency are issues for all companies across all sectors, and especially in manufacturing. We’re very proud that we’ve been able to keep RATANA as a family-owned business since it’s inception in 1980.

“Differentiation is key. People are seeking out design ideologies that feel more personal to them and their spaces. They want to mix and match styles, materials, and colors. There is a lot of inspiration coming through from the simplicity of Scandinavian design and the inherent sophistication that breeds.

“Indoor/Outdoor Contiguous Living. Several cities where we have a strong client base are seeing warmer temperatures year ’round. This has created an increased desire to construct outdoor spaces that are suitable for entertaining, and furniture is the most significant element for comfort and the functionality of the space.”

Forecast for your Business in 2019: “Our focus is on doing more of what we do best, and strategic growth in key regions in America, the South and West Coast, in particular, are experiencing more warm days than ever before. A core part of our business has been built on our ability to develop our existing client relationships, and through the deep knowledge and understanding of our clients and their various businesses, we are then able to help them build and develop their businesses.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “18!”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “Hearth & Home has been my go-to source for news and business developments in the hearth and outdoor furniture industry. It covers trends, news, new products, and business developments in the hearth, barbecue, and patio furniture industries.”